16 Percent of Calories Comes from Alcohol

11/19/2012

Want a quick way to lose weight? Cut out the booze.

According to a new study, 16 percent of Americans’
calories come from alcoholic beverages. That breaks down to roughly 100
calories per day. Men drink a little more, at 150 calories per day, with women
hovering around 50 calories.

Many people suggest dropping soda and other sugary
drinks as a means to lose weight, but what about alcohol?

It is man’s best quick-fix -- after a long day at
work, getting ready to go out or even just enjoying a glass of wine with dinner.
But 100 calories per day is an additional 700 calories per week (and we could probably
round up for drinkers when it comes to the weekend).

How
can I cut back?

Similar to “meatless Mondays” try not drinking
during the week, say, Monday through Thursday, or if you’re really ambitious,
Sunday through Thursday.

Increase the amount of water you drink and try to
have a glass of water before you automatically reach for the pint. This way,
you’ll be too full to have a drink.

Try exercising when you’re stressed instead of
automatically going to a happy hour. The highest caloric intake occurs with men
ages 20 to 39, likely guys who want to have fun and relax after a long work day
and find themselves outside on a patio with the boys sipping on a drink. Be
aware of this and try to plan your day accordingly – bring your gym clothes to
work, or wake up a little early to workout. Tell yourself ahead of time that “I
will not have a drink today.” It may sound extreme, but your waistline with
thank you for it.

It’s
OK to Indulge Once in a While

While your physical health is of course important,
be mindful of your mental health as well. Hanging out and socializing with your
friends is also an extremely valuable way to spend your day, so be sure to let
yourself cheat once in a while – and be OK with it.

Oh, and one more thing, definitely don’t do this or
this. When you drink, keep it in moderation.